HEALTH INFORMATION

Later-Stage Dementia: Information for Caregivers

Do you have a family member or friend who is in the later stages of dementia? This disease has affected many aspects of how this person functions. As a caregiver, you might feel overwhelmed or anxious about these changes. These feelings are natural. There are things you can be aware of and prepare for to help you as this condition changes over time.

Changes in Symptoms

Your loved one's behavior may be drastically different from what you've known in the past. The person may not recognize you or may call you by different names, lash out unexpectedly, or be nervous or suspicious of things you do. It is important to remember that the person is not acting this way on purpose. Try not to take anything personally. The behaviors are not intentional and could be caused by a variety of feelings and emotions, such as frustration in not remembering things or physical pain from other illnesses.

As this disease progresses, the following symptoms may get worse:

Memory loss

Inability to do daily tasks, such as dress and bathe

Lack of recognition of familiar people, places, and objects

Trouble with speech and writing

Agitation and anxiousness

Motor skills, such as driving a car

Depression

You're Doing a Good Job

During this time, it may be difficult to know what to do or how to do it. Remember that you are doing what's best for your family member or friend. If this is a parent, a role reversal may have occurred, placing you in the role of parent. You may feel fully responsible for the health and well-being of your parent. Be assured that you are doing a good job.

Try not to take it on all by yourself. If possible, look for support from those around you. This may be a family member, friend, or neighbor. Say yes when people offer to help, and know that these people want to support you and your loved one.

Make Decisions Now

One thing you can do to feel more secure is to complete legal paperwork as needed, including documents for financial and health care issues. This could include a Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care, living will, or other form of advance directive. Having these documents completed and ready if you need them can make situations easier as they come up.

Clinical review by David McCulloch, MD
Group Health
Reviewed 03/01/2014

Additional Resources

Caregiver Brochure

If you're a caregiver providing support to an aging or
disabled relative or friend, you know that caring for
someone can be tough. It's not uncommon to find yourself
overwhelmed and exhausted.

For tips on how to take better care of yourself and where to turn for additional help, contact our Resource Line and ask for the pamphlet, "You're Not Alone: A Helpful Guide for Those Who Care for Older Adults."